2-Day Summer Tour of Iceland's South Coast to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon With Glacier Hiking
Description
Summary
Description
Experience the magnificent beauty of Iceland on this 2-day tour of the South Coast. You will see a variety of incredible attractions, including waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and unique rock formations. You will also have the opportunity to step onto a glacier, offering a truly unforgettable experience.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience Iceland’s top highlights and hidden gems in just two days. Enjoy an exciting glacier hike and cruise the spectacular Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, known as the “Crown Jewel of Iceland.” Plus, explore the eerie beauty of the Solheimassandur Black Desert and encounter rare, breathtaking views along the way.
You'll travel on a minibus with a small group, allowing you more time to appreciate the attractions and ask your guide any questions you have. With Wi-Fi onboard, you can stay connected and share your unforgettable moments in real-time, ensuring you never miss a chance to capture and share the beauty of your journey.
Your adventurebegins in Reykjavik, where you will be picked up for a seamless start to your journey. As you head out of town on the Ring Road, you’ll admire the dramatic moss-covered lava fields surrounding the capital area.
Throughout the tour, you'll explore some of Iceland's most iconic sights, including the stunning Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss Waterfalls. You'll also visit the famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, where you'll be amazed by the unique volcanic sand and striking basalt columns.
As the adventure unfolds, you'll be captivated by the mystical beauty of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where you can sail among towering icebergs. Then, step onto Diamond Beach, where the ice glistens in the sun.
To wrap up this unforgettable journey, you'll embark on a thrilling glacier hike on Vatnajokull, Europe's largest ice cap, or Solheimajokull Glacier, depending on where the best conditions are. All necessary safety equipment, including crampons, an ice axe, and a helmet, will be provided for your safety and comfort.
Your accommodation for the night is fully arranged, ensuring you have a comfortable and restful stay. You'll enjoy a cozy room where you can relax and recharge after a day of adventure.
With the convenience of this minibus tour, you can leave the driving to someone else and simply enjoy the journey. If you're visiting in the summer, you'll experience the magic of the midnight sun, and in the early autumn, you might catch a glimpse of the northern lights.
Don't miss this opportunity to maximize your two days in Iceland by exploring its stunning South Coast region. Check availability by choosing a date.
Included
Map
Attractions
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Vatnajokull Glacier
Skogafoss
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Katla
Solheimajokull Glacier
Skaftafell
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Vik
Reynisdrangar
South Coast
Diamond BeachActivities
Daily itinerary
Day 1 - South Coast and Glacier Lagoon
On your first day, you will begin your journey along Iceland’s famous Ring Road, heading toward the stunning South Coast. This scenic route is lined with lush lava fields, towering mountains, and glacial rivers, offering breathtaking views right from the start.
Your first stop is the towering Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, standing at 60 meters (197 feet). Surrounded by lush green hills and volcanic rock, Seljalandsfoss is a favorite spot for photographers. You can walk behind the waterfall and feel its mist up close. In the summer, its spray is visible from far away, adding to the magic of the scene.
You'll then visit the impressive Skogafoss Waterfall, where its powerful 60-meter (197-foot) drop creates a fine mist that can form a rainbow on sunny days. A Viking treasure is said to be hidden behind the falls, adding to its sense of mystery and fascination. For a better view, climb the 527 steps to the top, where you'll be treated to an amazing vista.
Next, you'll explore the world-famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, known for its striking black shore and powerful waves. The nearby Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks add to its unique charm, standing tall against the crashing surf. According to Icelandic folklore, these jagged formations were once trolls who were turned to stone by the rising sun.
You’ll pause for lunch in the nearby village of Vik, Iceland’s southernmost settlement. Enjoy a meal while admiring views of the coastal cliffs.
Then, you’ll continue eastward, traveling through vast lava fields and glacial plains before reaching the breathtaking Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, the “Crown Jewel of Iceland.” Here, massive blue icebergs break away from the Breidamerkurjokull Glacier and drift serenely across the lagoon before going to the open ocean.
Next to the famous Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is the magical Diamond Beach. Experience the beauty of the beach as you stroll amongst icebergs that shimmer like diamonds under the light of the sun.
The icebergs on the beach come from Breidamerkurjokull, a glacier tongue of Vatnajokull Glacier. In Icelandic, the beach is called Breidamerkursandur, which means "Sand of Wide Woodland." Most Icelanders are unfamiliar with the English name "Diamond Beach."
As the day draws to a close, you’ll settle into your accommodation near the glacial lagoon or in the charming coastal town of Hofn. If you are traveling during the early autumn, watch the sky because you might be able to see the northern lights illuminating the glacial landscape.
Day 2 - Glacier Expedition & Waterfalls
Your second day begins with an unforgettable Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon boat tour. Here, you'll sail among towering icebergs from the Breidamerkurjokull Glacier.
Nature has distinctly shaped each iceberg into beautiful shades of crystal blue and pure white. The icebergs edge toward the ocean, and some land on nearby Diamond Beach, gleaming like jewels against the black sand. This is one of Iceland’s most photogenic locations, offering an incredible contrast of ice and lava-formed landscapes.
The highlight of the day is your glacier hiking adventure, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk across the surface of a massive glacier. Guided by a certified glacier expert, you'll be equipped with crampons, a helmet, and an ice axe to navigate the icy terrain.
Depending on the conditions, you'll hike in Vatnajokull Glacier or Solheimajokull Glacier. If you hike on Vatnajokull you'll traverse part of Europe's largest ice cap, covering approximately 8% of Iceland.
You'll explore a frozen wonderland of towering ice ridges, deep crevasses, and electric-blue ice formations. Experience firsthand the sheer scale and power of this icy giant.
If your glacier hike occurs on Solheimajokull, an outlet of Myrdalsjokull Glacier, you'll step into a terrain forged by ice and fire. Here, streaks of volcanic ash from past eruptions weave through the frozen surface, creating a stunning contrast against the brilliant blue ice.
As you traverse this vast and ever-changing landscape, you’ll deeply appreciate the sheer power of nature and the forces that have shaped Iceland over millennia.
After an action-packed day of exploring Iceland’s frozen wonders, you’ll board your comfortable minibus to return to Reykjavik. Sort through your photos, and share stories from your unforgettable South Coast experiences and your adventure conquering a glacier.
What to bring
Good to know
This South Coast tour is designed to be smooth and hassle-free, so all you need to do is enjoy the adventure! The glacier hike has a minimum age requirement of 8 years, making it an excellent adventure for families with kids.
Along the way, there will be a stop at gas stations or small shops where you can grab snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. For lunch, you'll have the option to enjoy a warm meal, and in the evening, your hotel will have a restaurant where you can unwind with dinner. Vegan and vegetarian options are widely available.
You can bring one hand luggage item on board and store any extra for a small fee in Reykjavik. Since you'll be exploring Iceland's distinct landscapes, we highly recommend sturdy hiking boots with slip-resistant soles and ankle support. If you don't have a pair, you can easily add them to your booking.
If you're traveling in early autumn, watch the skies. This itinerary will take you through some of the best locations to see the northern lights! You may witness nature's most magical light show with some luck.
Video
Verified reviews
Similar tours
Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.
